Rapper Says the Australian Flag Is Racist

SYDNEY — Hugely successful Australian rapper Matt Cowell, better known by his stage name 360, said he identifies the Australian flag with racism.

The controversial remarks were made on an ABC panel program Q&A on Monday night after a member of the audience asked the 28-year-old artist how the country was perceived internationally.

[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dndT4vq5CpE&w=853&h=480]

Cowell, dressed in a suit but with his neck tattoo still showing, said: “The Australian flag to me … I identify it with racism.” He then asked the audience if they agreed, to which they applauded

Host Tony Robbins told Cowell that he had just made a “pretty controversial statement,” but the rapper pressed on: “On Australia Day you see a bunch of dudes with their tops off, and they are getting on the drink. They have an Australian flag wrapped around their neck. I’ve seen it so many times.” …